The current paper reviews literature on help-seeking in relation to suicide and attempted suicide. An overview of the extensive research into risk factors associated with suicide is given highlighting the link between mental health problems and suicide. A minority of people with mental health problems seek professional help and even fewer people will go on to receive help from specialist mental health services. The same pattern is seen in those at risk of suicide. The majority will not be receiving specialist support at the time of their death although about half will have had recent contact with their GP. Reasons for not seeking help in times of emotional distress are discussed. Finally, clinical implications arising from the literature are addressed and suggestions are made for future research.